Reading Festival: Your Guide to Getting There (Without Getting Lost... Much)
So, you've snagged yourself a ticket to Reading Festival, the holy grail of live music weekends. You're practically headlining your own mosh pit by this point, right? But wait... how exactly do you get from the urban jungle of London to the moshing paradise of Reading? Fear not, fellow festival-goer, for this guide will be your chariot (or at least your Uber) to those glorious fields.
Train: The Trusty Steed (Unless There's a Strike)
Let's be honest, the train is a classic for a reason. It's fast (around an hour from London Paddington), it's relatively painless (though packing light is your friend), and hey, who doesn't enjoy watching the English countryside whiz by? Just be sure to book your tickets in advance, especially if you're planning on rocking out like a rockstar all weekend. Reading Festival can get hectic, and the last trains back to London are legendary for disappearing faster than free pizza at a frat party.
Top Tip: Check for engineering works before you travel. Nobody likes a surprise track closure when they're mid-festival frenzy.
Coach: The Big Green Behemoth
Feeling fancy? Or maybe just seriously laden with camping gear? Then the Big Green Coach might be your chariot. This official festival partner offers a comfy ride straight from London to the festival site, with the added bonus of skipping the train station scrum. Plus, who knows, you might even make some new besties on the journey. Just remember, booking in advance is essential, and loosen up those vocal chords - you might be subjected to a singalong or two!
Car: The Great Gamble (Unless You're a Master Planner)
The freedom of the open road! Sounds tempting, doesn't it? Well, maybe. While a car lets you control your destiny (and blast festival tunes at earsplitting volume), Reading Festival traffic can be a nightmare. Parking is a competitive sport, so you'll need ninja-level planning skills. Plus, after a long weekend of rocking out, are you really up for the drive back? Just something to consider...
Unless you're a seasoned festival road-tripper, this might be a gamble best left untaken.
FAQ
How to book train tickets to Reading Festival?
Several operators run services to Reading. Check National Rail or Trainline for routes and fares.
How much does it cost to get to Reading Festival by coach?
Prices vary depending on the route, but expect to pay around £50+ for a return ticket from London.
Can I bring my car to Reading Festival?
Yes, but parking needs to be booked in advance and can be expensive. Consider the hassle of traffic and limited spaces before you commit.
How early should I leave for Reading Festival?
Give yourself plenty of time, especially if you're relying on public transport. Factor in potential delays and the inevitable festival crowds.
What if I miss the last train back to London?
There will be limited late-night services, but be prepared for queues and potentially hefty taxi fares. Consider staying over in Reading if you're worried about missing the last train.
